Ever thought unpaid taxes could mess with your passport? It’s a harsh reality many aren’t aware of. When the IRS certifies taxpayers with significant unpaid tax debts, it leads to serious actions regarding their passports. But don’t worry—we’ll guide you through what this means and how you can handle it.
This article is sponsored by the tax professionals at the Law Office of Jason Carr. Contact the Law Office of Jason Carr or call 888-661-6583 for expert assistance.
What Does a Passport-Related Tax Issue Mean?
When you have substantial unpaid taxes, the IRS can notify the State Department, which may then deny your passport application or even revoke your current passport. It’s not just about missing a vacation; it can affect your ability to travel for work or emergencies.
Defining Seriously Delinquent Tax Debts
Seriously delinquent tax debts are unpaid federal tax debts over $62,000, including assessed penalties and interest. These debts become a problem when the IRS files a Notice of Federal Tax Lien or issues a levy. Learn more about seriously delinquent tax debts.
Exceptions to Certification
Not all tax debts are treated equally. Some debts aren’t certified to the State Department, such as:
- Child support debts
- Debts being paid through IRS-approved installment agreements
- Debts under an accepted offer in compromise
- Debts subject to a pending Collection Due Process hearing
- Those under innocent spouse relief requests
How Certification Works
The IRS sends a CP508C notice to your last known address when certifying your tax debt to the State Department. This notice is your signal to act quickly to resolve your tax issues.
Handling a Denied or Revoked Passport
If your passport application is denied or your passport is revoked, you have 90 days to resolve the situation by:
- Setting up a payment plan with the IRS
- Paying the tax debt in full
- Addressing any certification errors
Expedited Reversal for Urgent Travel
Need to travel urgently? If you have an open or pending passport application and need to travel within 45 days, contact the IRS to expedite the process. Provide proof of travel and a copy of the State Department’s denial letter dated within the last 90 days.
Reversing Certification
The IRS will reverse certification when:
- The tax debt is fully paid or becomes legally unenforceable
- The tax debt is no longer seriously delinquent
- The certification was made in error
Once the IRS reverses the certification, they will notify the State Department, usually within 30 days.
Seeking Legal Assistance
If you disagree with the IRS’s certification or need to resolve your tax debt, legal assistance can be invaluable. Contact the Law Office of Jason Carr to navigate these issues effectively.
FAQs
Q: Can the IRS really revoke my passport?
A: Yes, if you have seriously delinquent tax debt, the IRS can certify this to the State Department, leading to a denial or revocation of your passport.
Q: How long do I have to resolve the issue?
A: You generally have 90 days from the State Department’s denial letter to address the tax debt or certification issues.
Q: What if I need to travel urgently?
A: You can request expedited reversal of certification if you have urgent travel plans and an open or pending passport application.
Q: How can I prevent this situation?
A: Stay current on your tax payments and address any IRS notices promptly to avoid serious delinquent debt status.
Remember, dealing with tax issues in promptly can prevent passport-related complications. If you’re facing such issues, the Law Office of Jason Carr is here to help in Florida.
For assistance, contact the Law Office of Jason Carr or call 888-661-6583.
